Are you one of those people who only take good care of your teeth for about a week before your dentist visit? If that describes you, then these tips for great dental health are for you.
The most important element of excellent dental health is maintenance. You need to establish a regular schedule for brushing every day, at least twice per day. Brushing should take approximately two to three minutes. A timer may be a helpful tool for you. Talk with your dentist for a recommendation on the best type of toothbrush for you. Many people prefer electric toothbrushes over regular ones because they do a better job of cleaning between and behind teeth, helping to keep plaque at a minimum. Flossing your teeth at least once per day should be part of your daily regimen as well. Studies have shown that only approximately thirty percent of Americans floss daily. Failing to floss is a major contributor to gum disease. Your hygienist will show you the proper way to floss when you receive your cleanings.
Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. For most people, this equates to two times per year. However, if you experience toothaches, bleeding gums or other problems, do not wait! Call your dentist for advice. In most cases, he/she will probably want to see you before the six months are up. The dentist will also perform x-rays at least once per year. Todays digital x-rays are much safer than the ones used years ago and are more comfortable. X-rays are an important part of your visits in discovering problems that may not be obvious.
A factor that people often overlook related to dental health is those things that you eat or drink that can cause stained or discolored teeth. Foods such as coffee, tea and soda as well as habits like smoking and drinking red wine can stain your teeth as well as cause teeth erosion because of their acidity. Thankfully, there are a few tips that can help reduce the staining of your teeth if you just cant give up your morning coffee. They include rinsing of your mouth thoroughly, chewing on sugarless gum after eating or drinking, and swallowing promptly.
Its not possible to discuss tips for great dental health without mentioning sugary foods. Consider this fact: for each sugary treat that you indulge in, approximately twenty minutes of acid production takes place. A little known fact that people may not be aware of is that starchy foods like crackers, cereal and bread can also allow acid to form. Overuse of sugary and starchy foods without proper maintenance can also be a factor in developing gum disease.
The good news in all of this is that most serious dental problems are avoidable by using the tips mentioned above. Maintaining good dental habits at home as well as keeping up with checkups and cleanings will go a long way in keeping those pearly whites healthy.
